Zucchini Bread Recipe from the Garden

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 85 minutes

Introduction

Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that often flourishes in home gardens. But what to do when you have too many? Making zucchini bread is a fantastic way to utilize this abundant vegetable, offering a moist, flavourful loaf that’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Here’s how to make the best out of your garden’s bounty.

Ingredients

• 2 cups grated fresh zucchini
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1 cup walnuts or chocolate chips

Tools Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Grater
• Oven

Instructions

Preparing the Zucchini:

1. Wash and Grate: Wash your garden-fresh zucchini under cold water, then grate it using a coarse grater.
2. Drain Moisture: Place the grated zucchini in a strainer and gently press to remove excess moisture.

Making the Bread:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine: Add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix just until combined.
5. Add Zucchini: Fold in the grated zucchini. If using walnuts or chocolate chips, add them here.
6. Pour and Smooth: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake: Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean or with just a few crumbs.

Cooling and Storage:

1. Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Storage: Store in an airtight container. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Zucchini bread is a wonderful way to enjoy your garden’s zucchini harvest. It’s not only delicious but also versatile; feel free to add in nuts or chocolate chips to suit your taste. Happy gardening and baking!